86pc of journo killings go unpunished: UNESCO 

Around 86 per cent of killings of journalists, media workers and others engaged in journalistic activities worldwide remain unpunished, with 189 killed in 2024 and 2025, according to UNESCO.

Of the victims, 67 per cent were killed in countries experiencing armed conflict, highlighting the heightened risks faced by journalists in war zones and the continuing failure to bring those responsible to justice.

UNESCO disclosed the figures in a statement marking the International Day to End Impunity for Crimes against Journalists. The statement was conveyed in a press release issued on Monday by Dr Susan Vize, UNESCO Representative to Bangladesh and Head of the UNESCO Dhaka Office.

This year's observance carries the theme, "The nature of threats is changing; impunity persists", highlighting evolving threats against journalists and the continued lack of accountability for crimes committed against them.

The statement said journalists' safety was essential to freedom of expression and the public's right to know. Ending impunity requires not only prosecuting perpetrators but also taking effective preventive measures, responding promptly to threats and ensuring that journalists can work without fear.

In Bangladesh, UNESCO is working to strengthen journalist safety under the United Nations' electoral assistance project, BALLOT. Project data show that around 3,000 journalists across the country had received training by September 2026, including a full-day module on journalist safety. The trainees included nearly 200 female journalists and 24 photojournalists.

Ahead of the national elections, UNESCO also distributed 60 protective vests, 4,000 journalist support cards and 7,500 sets of guidelines on election reporting.

The initiative also seeks to improve institutional coordination among the Election Commission, police and media organisations through training sessions and dialogues to strengthen journalists' safety during election coverage.